Not to be confused with Robert Downey Jr.’s famous Marvel Comics character, Iron Man, created by former Disney artist Vernon Miller, was the first Canadian hero to appear after the War Exchange Conservation Act was implemented. Iron Man lacked a distinct Canadian identity — he was the last surviving member of a race that lived in the South Seas — and used his superhuman strength for the Allied cause and helped them thwart the Nazis.

The Penguin

First Appearance: 1943, Wow Comics #15

A Canadian crime-fighting superspy created Adrian Dingle, maker of Nelvana of the Northern Lights, The Penguin is not be confused with the famous Batman villain, The Penguin was an expert in hand-to-hand combat and a master detective who sported a penguin mask and a suit while protecting Canada against Axis spies and infiltrators.

Canada Jack

First Appearance: March 1943, Canadian Heroes Vol. 1

Created by George M. Rae, Canada Jack was a Canadian commando who defended the home front from the Axis powers during the Second World War. One of the Golden Age’s more realistic heroes, Canada Jack was a strong, athletic gymnast and jiu-jitsu expert who sported a tank top with a maple leaf at its centre.

Johnny Canuck

First Appearance: February 1942, Dime Comics #1

Another Canadian hero who lacked superpowers, Johnny Canuck was Canada’s second national superhero after Nelvana of the Northern Lights. A Second World War air force captain and secret agent, all but one of Johnny Canuck’s adventures take place overseas as he combats the Nazis on a variety of fronts, including Africa, Russia and Berlin.

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